Empowering Your Child: Leadership Through Ashbourne’s Student Council
At Ashbourne College, we believe education is about more than academic achievement, it’s also about helping your child grow into a confident, capable, and compassionate leader. One of the best ways students can do this is by joining the Ashbourne College Student Council, a dynamic, student-led group that plays a central role in shaping college life.
If your child wants to take initiative, develop leadership skills, and contribute meaningfully to the school community, the Student Council provides the perfect platform.
What Is the Student Council?
The Ashbourne Student Council is a group of motivated students who lead by example. They are responsible, engaged, and trusted members of the college community who work collaboratively to improve the student experience and strengthen Ashbourne’s vibrant culture.
The council is divided into four main teams: Events, Supercurriculum, Social Media, and Leavers’ Dinner Planning. Each student takes an active role in organising initiatives that matter to their peers and positively impact college life.
Student Council members also serve as ambassadors for the College. They assist at key events such as Open Evenings and Parents’ Evenings, providing a warm welcome and helping both prospective students and their families. These experiences not only benefit the College but help your child develop professionalism, public speaking skills, and confidence in formal settings.
Why Should Your Child Join the Student Council?
Participation in the Student Council is about much more than attending meetings. It offers your child the chance to lead real projects, work closely with staff, and help create a more engaging and inclusive environment for everyone.
Your child will gain:
– Leadership and teamwork experience to strengthen university applications and CVs
– Opportunities to plan and run events like Ashbourne Olympics, Culture Day, and charity bake sales
– A voice in college decision-making, allowing them to influence policies and student life
– The chance to mentor others, especially by supporting Year 12 students through talks and transition support
– Supporting Year 12 students with settling in at Ashbourne by delivering talks during Personal Tutor sessions
This experience helps students build resilience, communication skills, and a sense of social responsibility, qualities that are invaluable both at university and in future careers.
How Does It Work?
Students are invited to apply twice a year: once in the summer for a September start, and again in December for a January intake. The process includes a written application where students outline their ideas, and for those applying for the role of President, an interview is required.
Once accepted, your child will attend regular meetings where they’ll exchange ideas, gather peer feedback, plan events, and work with staff on student-led initiatives. It’s a hands-on, real-world leadership opportunity that encourages accountability and initiative.
Your Child’s Voice Matters
Even if your child doesn’t join the Student Council, their voice still matters. Council representatives are approachable and eager to hear suggestions from fellow students. Whether your child wants to propose a new club, suggest an event, or share feedback on school life, their input helps shape the Ashbourne experience for everyone.
Encouraging Responsibility and Confidence
Ashbourne’s Student Council offers your child a meaningful way to engage with school life beyond the classroom. It provides space for creativity, responsibility, and collaboration, and helps students grow into leaders who are ready to make a difference in the world.
If your child is enthusiastic, dependable, and ready to contribute to the school community, encourage them to apply when the next application window opens. All students receive information via email and through the College’s weekly newsletter.
1. What is the Ashbourne College Student Council?
The Ashbourne Student Council is a student-led group that represents the voice of the student body. Members organise events, contribute ideas, and work with staff to improve college life while developing leadership and teamwork skills.
2. How is the Student Council structured?
The council is divided into four teams: Events, Social Media, and Leavers’ Dinner Planning. Each team focuses on initiatives that engage the student community and enhance the overall Ashbourne experience.
3. Why should my child join the Student Council?
Joining the Student Council helps students develop leadership, organisation, and communication skills. It also strengthens university applications and CVs by demonstrating initiative, responsibility, and teamwork.
4. What types of events does the Student Council organise?
The Student Council has led initiatives such as Ashbourne Olympics, Culture Day, and charity bake sales. They also support Year 12 students during their transition by delivering talks and mentoring.